Romania: Castles, Culture & Road Trip Adventures Bucharest & Cluj-Napoca | 24–26 August 2024
Romania is a country full of surprises and dramatic landscapes. I explored it on a quick road trip with my own car, driving from Bucharest in the south up to Cluj-Napoca before continuing to Serbia.
Bucharest
I started my journey in Bucharest, the capital. The city has beautiful traditional architecture and some very good local restaurants serving authentic Romanian food. It’s a solid starting point with a mix of old and new, but it didn’t stand out as a major highlight for me.
The Star Attraction: Dracula Castle
The absolute must-see of the trip was Bran Castle (famously known as Dracula’s Castle). It’s everything you imagine and more — perched dramatically on a hill with a mysterious, fairy-tale atmosphere. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Even if you’re not a big castle person, this one is worth the detour.
Cluj-Napoca & The Salt Mine
I finished my Romanian leg in Cluj-Napoca, where I visited the impressive Turda Salt Mine. It’s a unique underground world with caves, lakes, and even amusement areas carved deep into the salt. A very cool and unusual attraction.
Final Thoughts
Romania delivered on the road trip front — scenic drives, historic sites, and unique experiences like the Salt Mine and Dracula Castle. The country feels authentic and full of character. Bucharest was fine as a transit point, but the real magic lies in the countryside and iconic sights.
Would I recommend Romania? Yes — especially for a road trip. The Dracula Castle alone makes it worthwhile. It’s easy to combine with neighboring countries (as I did with Serbia), and driving gives you great flexibility. I’d love to return one day to explore more of Transylvania and the mountains.
A memorable, slightly spooky, and very enjoyable short visit.
